MANILA – The Office of the Ombudsman is investigating two members of the House of Representatives over alleged violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act for supposedly owning or having ties to construction firms while serving as public officials.

In a report, it said that Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano identified the lawmakers under investigation as Uswag Ilonggo party-list Rep. Jojo Ang and Tarlac Third District Rep. Noel Rivera.

According to Clavano, the complaints involve alleged violations of Section 3(h) of Republic Act No. 3019, which prohibits public officials from having financial interests that conflict with their official duties.

“The complaint against them involves conflict of interest, a violation of Republic Act 3019. Lawmakers are prohibited from owning a construction firm because members of Congress have influence over the budget,” Clavano said during a press conference.

He said lawmakers who own or have beneficial ownership in construction companies may violate the law if those firms receive government contracts.

“Any reward to a construction company that is under their name, or can be traced to them via beneficial ownership is a violation of that conflict of interest rule. Napakasimple po. Napakasimple ng rule na yan,” Clavano added.

Earlier, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said at least eight “congtractors” are under investigation over their alleged involvement in the country’s flood control project anomalies.